Dubai unveils AED4 billion desert tourism destination

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Render: Al Layan Oasis cycling trails

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance its outdoor and eco-tourism experiences, Dubai has unveiled Al Layan Oasis, a AED4 billion desert destination expected to attract up to 330,000 visitors annually.

The large-scale development will span one million square metres, a quarter of which will be covered by lakes and surrounded by camping areas, sports trails and leisure zones that deliver what His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, described as “unprecedented desert tourism experiences.

Located around 50 minutes from Downtown Dubai, Al Layan Oasis will serve as a key stop along the emirate’s new recreational vehicle (RV) route, offering a tranquil retreat within close reach of the city. It will also form part of a wider RV network connecting Dubai’s desert, mountain and coastal attractions.

Al Layan Oasis will be divided into four main zones, each offering distinct experiences. At the heart of the development, the Gathering Oasis will feature an amphitheatre, open-air cinema, food truck areas and event spaces. The Family Oasis will provide 28 rest areas, play zones and a range of family-friendly facilities.

Render: Al Layan Oasis

For adventure seekers, Camping Oasis will include 100 caravan sites and a visitor centre promoting environmental awareness. Completing the destination, the Recreation Oasis will offer retail outlets and outdoor pursuits set within the natural landscape.

Plans include 14km of walking and cycling trails, including 4km of elevated paths rising five metres above ground level to provide panoramic views. The site will also offer 1,000 parking spaces and extensive native planting to increase shade and comfort.

Developed under Dubai Municipality’s Blue and Green Roadmap 2030, the project advances the emirate’s investment in environmental wellbeing and sustainable infrastructure.

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The launch of Al Layan Oasis comes amid growing demand for outdoor and eco-focused tourism across the UAE. Other recent initiatives include the nation’s first cross-emirate hiking trail connecting Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, as well as Dubai’s new RV route designed to encourage experiential travel.

The private sector is also driving low-impact hospitality growth. In Fujairah, Parvara has opened as an all-inclusive, off-grid retreat for immersive nature experiences. In Hatta, Ennismore’s Our Habitas brand is preparing to launch glamping caravan stays, while Shurooq is partnering with The Lux Collective to develop LUX Al Bridi Resort, a safari-style destination within the 800-hectare Al Bridi Reserve near Sharjah Sustainable City.

For more information, visit dm.gov.ae